Wednesday, August 20, 2008

A New Chapter Begins

Today was the day; I am currently in Metro airport all alone. I just left my family and friends that accompanied me to the airport. The whole “good bye” thing is one of the worst parts of this. Leaving my friends as they grow up and go through college is so hard. I feel like I will miss out on so much over this span. My nephew is 1 ½ years old, so he will be 3 ½ when I get back. That’s two years I miss out on in his life. My parents will probably remain the same, but I have seen them almost every day for 21 years, now I won’t. Thinking of all of this brings tears to my eyes, as it did to some of the people who came with me; but I can’t look back.

It’s kind of strange to me that the fear still hasn’t set fully in yet, and I am almost there. I have had moments where I get nervous and scared, but they pass easier than a spelling test. I really am good at living in the moment, and always have been. My mind is thrown about so many different ways, and I think that right now it’s helping me accept my losses and count my blessings. How many people get the opportunity to see the world like this? How many get the chance to grow and mature outside of the starving land of America? This is where I need to be, and I know it. I’m ready to go. Please pray for courage!

13 comments:

craig said...

Ryan,
That day leaving you at the airport was the hardest thing that I have ever done, I still cry at it's memory. Yet I am absolutely certain and at peace that you are exactly where you are supposed to be. When those "fear" moments come, and they will come, know that you have so many people pulling for you and praying for you and trust God for your care. I love you my son. Your Proud Dad.

Anonymous said...

Beautiful feet? Reeeeeally????

Port huron seems empty without my ninja brother!

Mark said...

Ryan,
I am so sorry we could not make it to see you commisioned and sent off. Know that we are praying for you as you go out and do Gods work in the kingdom. May our Lord be with you every step of the way!!!

Uncle Mark

Jennifer D. said...

I am still crying...can't stop for whatever reason. I am most sad about you and Carson. We can keep you updated on his growth and achievement through the net. You won't miss it. I pray for you all the time!! Have fun, my brother! Have fun seeing the world and showing the nations God's love. All my (and Greg and Carson's) love!!
Jen

joey L said...

Ryan,
you have caused my eyes to well up with tears a few times over the past months. Perhaps our world, our country, and our youth aren't going to hell in a handbasket.

thankyou for being obedient.

Unknown said...

Ryan,
I applaude you for doing this. I wish you all the luck and prayers applenty for the remainder of your "adventure" . Hoave fun, be strong, and touch everyone you can! God Bless.

Jayson said...

Ryan,
Its hard thinking that you have gone, but Emily and I are so proud of you. God has chose the right man to do his work. We will keep you in our prayers and we Love You.

Jayson

kris said...

Ryan,
I am so proud of you!! Your courage is so admirable. I am praying for you and hope this finds you well. I am crying while I write this, although I know you are not surprised by that. I pray for your safety, your strength, you courage and most of all I am praying for you well-being. We all love you so much, Gods blessings.
Love,
aunt Kris

craig said...

Ry-baby,
You know me I never cry! How come I am crying so much! I miss you so much and am praying so hard for you! Please don't be too shy, you need to make friends and get close to some good friends! I want to be there with you and hug you! Now that I am crying again I can't see the keyboard to write! I am proud of you my baby! Love you with all of my heart!!!! Mommy

bruce said...

Ryan--we miss your great big bear hugs, well at least I do, maybe not Uncle Bruce so much! You are BLESSED to have this opportunity. I, like your mom, never cry either, but am balling after reading all these lovely entries!!
In love and prayer,
Aunt Nan and Uncle Bruce

Tommy D said...

Hey Ryan,
I remember vividly leaving Sean at the Citadel in 1999. I cried and could'nt talk for days in a normal voice when thinking about him. But, now he is in Iraq serving The Lord and I couldn't be more proud.

He once asked what we would say if he said he wanted to quite and come home. Too late, we said, God has a plan for your life and that includes leaving the comfortable confines of home. That was exactly what he wanted to hear. So, as I told Sean, enjoy the journey. You are in the best place in this world, the place God wants you to be.

In many ways I'm jealous but I am so happy for you and your family that you are serving God in this way. I understand their sorry and their pride!

Love in Christ, Tommy D.

dclundblad said...

Good morning Ryan,

Thanks so much for allowing us to share in your new experiences as you follow God's leading in your life. We will ALL benefit during these coming 2 years. Joan and I pray for you each day, that God will give you strength necessary for each and every new challenge you may face. He is faithful!

Dan

Cassie said...

Hey Ryan.
Beginning this new chapter of your life is going to be so extreme in your walk with Christ. I am so excited for you to go and make God famous and that you were obedient to the Lord demands for you. When you are feeling scared about what may lie ahead of you remember that God has placed you exactly where He wanted you to be and He is holding your hand the entire way.
With love, grace, and peace.
Pat. Cass. and Miss Drooly!